Hey there, fellow moms-to-be! As I eagerly await the arrival of my little one, I’ve been busy preparing for the big day. One essential task on my to-do list was packing my hospital bag. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my checklist and insights to help you ensure that your hospital bag is packed with all the essentials for both you and your newborn.
For starters, you’ll need a roomy hospital bag.
This can be anything from a backpack to luggage bag – as long it fits your needs.
I personally purchased this puff weekender bag since it is very spacious, feels durable, and looks beautiful!
I can see myself getting good use out of it from weekend trips and as a carry on for longer trips.
Mom’s Essentials
Comfortable Clothing
Pack loose and comfortable clothes for your hospital stay.
Think soft pajamas, a cozy robe, slippers, and cozy socks. If you are planning to breastfeed, anything button-up or specifically for breastfeeding should be considered.
My favorite clothing pieces have to be cozy two-piece sets! They give off the “put-together” look while still being super comfortable.
Also, I packed two sets of these pajama gowns to switch into once the “laboring” part is over and can get out of the not-so-cute hospital gown that is provided.
Nursing Bras and Pads
For all breastfeeding mama’s, you obviously can’t forget the nursing bra!
Make sure to look for a comfy, not too-tight bra that easily unclasps for easy breastfeeding and/or pumping.
As for nursing pads – I’d say these are optional depending on if you are leaking any milk yet in the first couple of days. Most moms will mostly produce colostrum (first form of breastmilk that is released by the mammary glands) after giving birth, with their milk supply coming in 3 – 5 days after giving birth.
Personal Care Items
Don’t forget your toiletries! Pack essentials like your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and your favorite skincare products.
I personally like taking travel size products and fill the small containers with my favorite products from home.
Also, a soothing lip balm and hair ties or hair claws can also come in handy.
Hydration
Labor can be energy-draining, so make sure you stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle.
I definitely had my husband filling up my water bottle numerous times during our stay with our first son.
Hospitals may not let you snack or have meals once checked in so I can’t speak on behalf of bringing snacks for yourself, but your partner will surely enjoy them!
Baby’s Essentials
Clothing
Pack a few outfits for your newborn, including onesies, sleepers, socks, mitts, and a hat for their delicate little head.
My favorite onesies and sleepers are made of bamboo material which are the absolute softest and very gentle on their sensitive skin.
Swaddle Blankets
Safely swaddling your newborn has many benefits including improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety and stress, maintained body temperature, reduced startle reflex, promotes self-soothing, prevents scratching, and supports calm feeding sessions.
Hospitals usually provide blankets, but bringing your own swaddle blankets can add a personal touch while keeping your baby snug and warm.
Diapers and Blankets
Again, most hospitals will provide diapers and wipes during your stay and even let you take home whatever supply they have in the room; however, it doesn’t hurt to be over-prepared.
Also, if you have a preferred brand or have had good experience with a particular brand in the past, it may be good to pack your own in case the hospital only has different brands available.
Going-Home Outfit
Choosing a special outfit for your baby’s first journey home is always an exciting experience. Consider the weather and dress them in layers to keep them comfortable.
Matching sweater sets like these are super popular for parent’s choice of going-home outfits.
You can even add an extra level of personalization by ordering a monogrammed sweater with your baby’s name or even try making your own with a kit like this one!
Other Items
Breast Pump
This is definitely optional since milk supply may be low the first days after giving birth, but it may be a good idea to bring along if you’d like to establish a pumping routine early on or to help stimulate the breasts to help your milk supply come in.
I am personally bringing along this manual breast pump – not only will it take up minimal space in my hospital bag but I loved using it during my first pregnancy for easy on the go pumping.
You may also want to consider a wearable breast pump. A good wearable breast pump like the ones below are not only effective at extracting the most milk but also allow you to do other tasks while your pump does all the hard work.
Pillow and Blanket
Having your pillow can make a significant difference in comfort during your hospital stay.
A cozy and familiar blanket can also add a touch of home to your hospital room.
Entertainment
Labor can be a lengthy process, so bring along items to keep yourself entertained. A good book, magazine, or a playlist of your favorite tunes can help pass the time.
I say this but I know everyone’s experience is different and it may be difficult to even concentrate on your favorite book through contractions or the many distractions.
Charger & Electronics
Ensure your phone and camera are charged, and pack chargers.
You’ll want to make sure you take long phone chargers since there may only be a couple of outlets in the hospital rooms and they may be far away from you.
You’ll definitely want to capture those precious first moments with your newborn – so make sure your phones and/or cameras are charged.
Baby Door Announcement and Name Announcement Signs
Announcement signs are optional but many parents like to hang an announcement sign on their hospital door with the baby name, weight, etc. for their loved ones to easily spot the room if visiting.
Name announcement signs like this one are also very popular to include in baby’s first pictures.
Conclusion
Packing your hospital bag is an exciting part of the nesting process and by preparing in advance you’ll be better equipped to focus on the joyous occasion ahead.
Wishing you a smooth and wonderful birthing experience! Stay tuned for more updates on my motherhood journey here 🙂
Xoxo,
Diana Colibri
